District Administrators Embrace ‘Give Attention’ Mantra

Administrators in the Northport-East Northport School District gathered for a meeting with Superintendent of Schools Robert Banzer on Oct. 13, 2016 where they surprised him with matching “Give Attention” t-shirts.

The two words are significant for the district as Banzer stated them in his opening day speech in front of all of the district employees. Instead of using the term “pay” which is often obligatory, “give” is to doing something at your own will and is more genuine.  The word “attention” was inspired by a poem written by Marge Piercy titled “The Art of Blessing the Day.” According to Banzer, the most significant line reads “Attention is love, what we must give children, mothers, fathers, pets, our friends, the news, the woes of others…”

During his opening day speech, Banzer used the slogan to stress the importance of making connections with students, families and staff and cultivating trusting relationships throughout the school year. Chairperson of Special Education Karrie Kruger was so impacted by the caring nature of the slogan for all the members of our school community, she decided to create the shirts and surprise Banzer as a way to celebrate his leadership.

“I was blown away,” said Banzer. “I’m so fortunate to work with such a talented and dedicated team of administrators who are committed to supporting our faculty and staff in helping meet the needs of our students and set them up for success.”

Photo Caption: Northport-East Northport administrators with Superintendent of Schools Robert Banzer in their matching “Give Attention” t-shirts on Oct. 13, 2016

Photo courtesy of the Northport-East Northport School District